Chemistry Forum

Hello,

My main goal is to determine the presence (and possibly the concentration) of a series of compounds such as organochlorine pesticides, HCH, and PCB in bird feathers. I want to perform the analysis using HPLC. However, I currently have an issue with choosing the extraction method. I have a large amount of acetonitrile available, so I thought that the best choice, based on the materials I have, would be to use the QuEChERS extraction method. I would like to know if this method is suitable for determining these compounds in a complex matrix like a feather. If so, is there a cheaper alternative for the dSPE step? I am referring to sorbents such as PSA and C₁₈. Is silica gel a suitable alternative?

Thank you very much!

QuEChERS could work for extracting organochlorine pesticides, HCH,Chill Guy Clicker and PCBs from feathers, but the complex feather matrix may reduce efficiency. Silica gel might be a cheaper alternative to PSA and C₁₈ for dSPE, but its effectiveness needs testing. If QuEChERS is not optimal, consider Soxhlet, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), or accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) for better results.

I would recomend a chemical digestion first. Dissolving in conc. sulfuric acid or caustic soda.
After neutralisation a extraction with a solvent can take place.

ChenBeier wrote: ↑Sun Feb 09, 2025 7:50 am I would recomend a chemical digestion first. Dissolving in conc. sulfuric acid or caustic soda.
After neutralisation a extraction with a solvent can take place.

In a little more detail, how would it be done step by step? chemical digestion is fairly new.